Bosses breathe sigh of relief as passport extension scrapped
Bungalow’sTommy McGrory feared it would affect trade
Renfrewshire businesses have welcomed a decision not to extend the vaccine passport system to more venues.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon told MSPs this week it would not be proportionate to expand the scheme with coronavirus cases having fallen slightly across the country.
She had considered implementing checks at cinemas, theatres and other hospitality venues, which would’ve brought them in line with restrictions at nightclubs and large events, such as football matches and concerts.
But ministers ditched the idea at Holyrood now the spread of the virus has stabilised.
Tommy McGrory, who runs The Bungalow live music venue in
Paisley, believes requiring vaccine certificates would’ve created another barrier for people leaving their homes and is relieved to see the plan thrown out.
He said: “I am pleased because I do not think the figures justified bringing this in.
“I don’t think alarm bells are ringing here as much as they are in other places.
“We’re at around one in 95 for cases at the moment and it’s one in 65 down in England.
“It wasn’t so much implementing it I was worried about, but I just think people can’t be bothered with it.
“There’s a decision-making process when you go out. It might be raining or cold and the taxis might be difficult to get hold of and this would’ve been another barrier for people going out.
“It would’ve caused queues at the door and frustration for people. It wouldn’t have made sense.”
The average number of new cases recorded each day in Scotland has fallen by about three per cent over the past week.
Ms Sturgeon also announced customers will be able to present evidence of a negative lateral flow test at venues already covered by the vaccine passport scheme from December 6.
Colette Cardosi, chair of business improvement district Paisley First, added: “We appreciate that, given public health concerns right now, the Scottish Government is looking to avoid further Covid-19 restrictions.
“Our Paisley town centre businesses have worked extremely hard during the last 20 months to keep staff and customers safe and visitors can be assured that this remains a priority moving forward.”
I am pleased because I do not think the figures justified bringing this in